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Label:In Buddhist tradition, lokapāla are heavenly kings who protect the four cardinal directions of the universe. In China, they came to be adopted in Tang dynasty funerary art as important guardians. Wearing an elaborate headdress that seems to represent the phoenix, this figure assumes a triumphant pose while standing atop a recumbent bull. His left arm is held up with his hand half-clenched, suggesting he possibly once held a weapon. His intricate armor is decorated with the vibrant sancai glaze, while his head is intentionally left unglazed.

* Works in the collection are moved off view for many different reasons. Although gallery locations on the website are updated regularly, there is no guarantee that this object will be on display on the day of your visit.